Mumbai, June 10, 2026: Corporate India is increasingly favouring work-linked learning models over traditional classroom-only skilling programmes, according to a new report by TeamLease EdTech titled Projects to Pipelines: The Shift from Short-Term Skilling to Work-Linked Employability Pathways.
The report suggests that while classroom-based training continues to receive significant CSR investments, employers believe sustainable employability can be achieved through long-term learning pathways that combine training with practical workplace experience.
Based on responses from 860 corporates across sectors, the study found that 62% of organisations continue to invest in short-term classroom-led skilling programmes. However, more than 95% of respondents stated that classroom-only training does not create job-ready talent, while nearly 75% believe blended learning models that integrate workplace exposure produce stronger employability outcomes.
The report identifies a mismatch between training programmes and market opportunities as a major challenge. More than 53% of corporates cited this gap as the biggest barrier to employability, while 39% pointed to the lack of practical workplace experience.
As industries adapt to technological advancements and changing job requirements, employers are placing greater emphasis on lifelong employability. According to the report, over 53% of organisations believe short-term skilling programmes alone are insufficient to build sustainable careers, while nearly 79% support earn-while-learn models that combine skill development with real-world work experience.
The findings also indicate a growing focus on long-term social impact. More than 81% of surveyed organisations said creating lasting social impact remains their primary CSR objective. Around 85% believe work-linked and blended learning programmes deliver stronger long-term social returns compared to standalone classroom interventions, while 70% said such programmes can significantly improve household income outcomes.
The report further highlights a shift in CSR investment priorities. More than 75% of organisations indicated they are likely to allocate a larger share of future CSR funding towards long-term skilling programmes that include workplace exposure, employment pathways and continuous learning opportunities.
Commenting on the findings, Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO, TeamLease EdTech, said, “India's skilling challenge is evolving from one of access to one of employability. In an economy where technology and job roles are constantly changing, individuals need more than training certificates- they need the ability to learn, adapt and remain employable throughout their careers. The findings indicate that employers increasingly recognise the value of integrating learning with workplace experience. Encouragingly, we are beginning to see a shift in CSR thinking as organisations move from funding short-term skilling projects toward supporting long-term employability pathways that can create lasting economic and social impact.”
The report concludes that the future of skilling lies in connecting learning directly with workplace opportunities, enabling individuals to build sustainable careers rather than merely complete training programmes.
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